Today, I am wearing leather for my outfit pose/post. As you know, leather is a durable and flexible material created by tanning of animal rawhide and skin. Today, I wanted to focus on another type of skin, human skin. And how we should be protecting our skin especially as African American or any people of color? How durable is our skin? Are you protecting it? How should one protect their skin?
As I mentioned in my last post titled “The Road to Grace,” I experienced an onset of adult acne and sought treatment with a dermatologist. While going to my bi-monthly acne treatments over the years I learned the importance of protecting my skin from the beautiful sun.
Wearing: J’Envie Leather Jacket, Teri Jon Lace Dress, Wolford Tights, J.Crew Suede Booties
It’s a known fact that while vacationing at the shore or if one is exposed to the sun when the strongest ultraviolet rays from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm. one must protect their skin. We now are more aware of the damaging effects of ultraviolet rays (UV). The UV rays are an invisible form of radiation that can penetrate the skin and damage skin cells. In addition, sunburns are a sign of skin damage. The UV rays according the Center for Disease Control can cause skin damage during any season or at any temperature. The rays also can cause skin spots, skin cancer, eye problems and premature aging/wrinkles.
A myth recently challenged, African Americans do not need to protect their skin from the sun. We know Caucasians are primarily victims of skin cancer. However, everyone regardless of skin color can fall prey to skin cancer according to Dr Mona Gohara, M.D., a Connecticut dermatologist. So for nearly a decade now, as an African American, I routinely wear a sun protection factor (SPF) everyday to protect my skin against the aging effects of the UV rays. According to Dr Karyn Grossman, M.D., a NYC dermatologist, “All complexions can burn,” and a dark-skinned African American doesn’t need as high an SPF sun block as someone with red or blonde hair, since African American have more melanin in their skin for natural protection.
The cosmetics industry has done a great job of now including SPF 15 in most foundations, creams, powders, and hand lotions. My morning routine includes not only an SPF 15 foundation but a final facial application of a SPF 30+, to provide extra protection, prevent the premature signs of aging with wrinkles, and reduce the risk of skin cancer with outside exposure. Especially since I spent a great deal of time outside everyday in my travels as a sales representative. The SPF I use I purchase from the dermatologist office is light and does not have an unusual odor like some SPFs so I am encouraged to use it. Some African American women swear by Vaseline, since I have oily skin that is not an option that I would consider.
One of the first signs of aging after the diminished vision is wrinkles, how are you warding off those wrinkles? What products are you using, if any? What about our spouses that golf, jog, or work outside, do they use SPF to protect their skin. Perhaps you’re just blessed with great genes and aging gracefully without using anything. Do tell!
I wear sunscreen like it’s my job! I think it’s one of the things that has helped my skin improve. It can heal itself because it’s protect when I’m outside. Plus, ThisThatBeauty swears by it and have you seen her skin? I will do whatever she recommends.
I agree, the suncreen application is finally routine and I believe using it helps to protect against UV rays and prevent wrinkles!! Love ThisThat Beauty, she has great beauty tips.
Channing has a whole face regime she sent me, which does include sunscreen. You look very chic and trendy in these pics…LOVE IT!
I have always had the question in the back of my mind should I or should I not wear sunblock. I’m still on the fence about it. I have never had a problem with burning, but I do tan. What level SPF would you suggest for someone like myself?
Cheryl,
Thank you for your question! First, if you wear any type of foundation, check to see if SPF included, usually it’s 15.
Then, how much time do you spent outside when UV rays are strongest (10:00 am to 4:00 pm)? If you dont work outside or spend great amount of time outside, I would stick with SPF 15 in your foundation if you wear it.
At a minimum, I would keep my skin protected with SPF 15.
Thanks this is great! I really have not paid attention to SPF’s especially in foundation. This is definetly something I should be aware of. Thanks for posting!
Cynthia, Thank you for your comment.
Serena, I overlooked your comment, thanks for stopping by.